Looking for a tasty way to improve your gut health? Yogurt may be the answer.
The dairy product is loaded with probiotics, or “good bacteria” that can help improve your immune system, digestion, and overall health. But is all yogurt probiotic? No, not all yogurts are created equal — some are filled with unnecessary sugars and artificial flavors. “What many people may not realize is that not all fermented foods can be considered probiotic,” says Amanda Sauceda, RD. When looking for probiotic yogurt, you want to look for “live and active cultures on the label,” Sauceda explains.
These live cultures of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus) can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, and kombucha. These bacteria give yogurt its distinctive taste and texture, and they also provide a number of health benefits.
Fortunately, there are several probiotic yogurt brands and brands that carry probiotic yogurt. We’ve consulted the experts and compiled a list of the best probiotic yogurts. And for those who prefer nondairy alternatives or crave the tangy goodness of probiotic kefir yogurt, we’ve got you covered too. We’ve even included a probiotic yogurt drink in the mix in case you’d prefer to sip in the probiotic yogurt benefits. Ahead, you’ll find 6 of the best probiotic yogurt RDs and nutritionists love.
Experts Featured in This Article:
Amanda Sauceda, RD, is a registered dietitian specializing in integrative and functional nutrition.
Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN, is a functional nutritionist.
Sophie Burge Dolan, MD, RDN, LDN, is a registered dietitian nutritionist with an expertise in Celiac and Crohn’s disease.
Anna Brown, RDN, is a functional registered dietitian and integrative nutritionist.
Juliana Tamayo, MS, RD, LDN, is a registered dietitian with a master of science in nutrition, dietetics, and sensory sciences.